Tottenham’s Erik Lamela pleads for Gareth Bale comparisons to stop

Erik Lamela opened his Tottenham account against Sheriff (Picture: AP)

Tottenham midfielder Erik Lamela insists comparisons shouldn’t be made between himself and Gareth Bale.

Lamela became Spurs’ record signing when he joined from Roma for £25.8m this summer, but has struggled to settle in his early months at White Hart Lane.

However, the 21-year-old finally bagged his first Tottenham goal in their 2-1 win over Sheriff Tiraspol last night, putting in a man-of-the-match performance.

And Lamela took the opportunity to tell fans and the media he wants to make a name for himself in his own right and not have to live up to comparisons with departed Spurs star Bale.

‘Bale is Bale, I am Erik Lamela,’ said the youngster.

‘Bale is at Real Madrid, one of the most important clubs in the world. He is who he is and I am who I am.

‘People have said many things about me and about the other players who joined last summer. Everyone can bring his own qualities and give his best for the team but it is wrong to say I was brought here to replace Bale.’